“Shapeshifting is when you look at a dimension of your life that’s working and you get into the vibratory field of that and you literally shift it into the area of your life where there’s stagnation…”—Michael Beckwith

Sh8peshifter Manifesto

I believe in the journey
That we are all connected as one
The truth and the contradiction
both occupying the same space at the same time
Every breath is a prayer
Where we decide the future in the present moment
Creating our own momentum for change

Sh8peshifter makes music art through ritual. While her music has been compared to the love child of Radiohead + Erykah Badu, this Oakland-based performance artist occupies a world of her own. A soundtrack to #BlackGirlMagic and beyond, her afro-eclectic mix of soul, dance and theater inspire folks to find the divinity within and bounce their booties to the bassline.

The Sh8peshifter’s fusion of afro-eclectic mix of soul, dance and theater has landed her on stages with the likes of Talib Kweli, Georgia Ann Muldrow and Gil Scott Heron. She’s also performed in front of more than 10,000 people at the Stern Grove Festival, been featured at Art Basel, and headlined Black Women Rock Detroit. Her sound — is at the intersection of Soul, Electronica, Hip-Hop and Afro-Beat, bringing to mind the likes of Janelle Monáe, Erykah Badu and MIA, but merging to find a sound all her own.

When it’s time to recharge, Zakiya can be found reading Octavia Butler or cooking with her 11-year-old daughter.

Three years in the making, I am proud to announce that my debut album Adventures of a Shapeshifter is finally complete! This album reflects my journey of oscillating between the many roles I play personally and professionally while simultaneously integrating all aspects of myself within my identity. I am truly honored to share it with you. Enjoy!